It’s October, festive offers are starting to appear, and choosing where to celebrate is becoming a priority.
Deciding on a destination, a city or town, and finding the right place, whether a hotel or restaurant, to gather with the people who matter most is never easy. Should you return to a familiar destination or try somewhere new? What should you choose during this magical time of year?
To help you decide, we’ve brought together some of the most appealing Christmas offers and New Year’s Eve experiences across Portugal, from north to south: Gaia, Lisbon and Évora. One of these destinations is sure to capture your imagination. Keep reading to discover the festive experiences on offer.
Where to celebrate Christmas and New Year’s Eve in Lisbon, Évora and Gaia
We’ve selected a range of Christmas and New Year’s Eve experiences across Portugal. At a time of year that brings people together and invites us to celebrate, let yourself be inspired by Portuguese culture and soul as you plan your Christmas and New Year celebrations.
Christmas and New Year’s Eve in Gaia, with views of Porto and the Douro
In Gaia, the Douro River and traditional Rabelo boats stretch as far as the eye can see. The scenery feels almost dreamlike, and one thing becomes clear: you’ll want to linger a little longer.
Christmas Eve dinner with river views
New Year’s Eve with views of the Douro and Porto
Since you’re in the home of Port wine, why not go for a walk and enjoy a boat trip on a traditional Rabelo boat and visit one of the many Port wine cellars?
Christmas and New Year’s Eve in Lisbon, with views of the city and São Jorge Castle
Just a few steps from Chiado, inspiration comes from one of the greatest writers in the Portuguese language, Fernando Pessoa, whose legacy is honoured by the hotel, and from the views over the Lisbon he knew and loved.
Christmas Eve dinner with views of Fernando Pessoa’s Lisbon
New Year’s Eve with views of São Jorge Castle and Lisbon
While visiting a place that pays tribute to one of Portugal’s greatest writers, you can also take home a book by Fernando Pessoa. A selection of his works is available to purchase at the hotel reception.
Christmas and New Year’s Eve in Évora, in the heart of the Alentejo
In Évora, in the heart of the Alentejo, the olive tree and olive oil take centre stage. Discover the region through its gastronomy and olive oil, as well as its traditions and crafts.
Christmas Eve dinner in Évora
New Year’s Eve in the Alentejo
Évora is surrounded by olive groves and is deeply connected to olive oil production. Why not take home a miniature bottle of olive oil or a locally crafted souvenir to give to someone special or to treat yourself?
The challenge has been set. Choose your destination, or destinations, and enjoy the celebrations with the people who matter most.
Christmas offers and corporate celebrations
Group dinners and corporate Christmas parties in Lisbon
Looking for a venue for a group dinner or corporate Christmas dinner? Mensagem, a panoramic restaurant in Lisbon, offers the perfect setting and can be partially or fully booked for private events.
Special menus are available for groups and corporate gatherings.
Group dinners and corporate Christmas parties in Gaia
Looking for a venue with exceptional views of the river and Porto? Look no further.
Rabelo offers front-facing views of the Douro River and the beautiful city of Porto. With its privileged location, it’s hard to imagine a better setting for your party or dinner.
Group dinners and corporate Christmas parties in Évora
Who doesn’t love the Alentejo? Évora is a UNESCO World Heritage city, rich in culture and gastronomy, in a region known for its olive oil and wine. It’s an ideal destination for hosting your event.
Évora Olive Hotel offers Mercearia Eborim restaurant and Sala Oliva, two complementary spaces that can be used together or separately.
How to book Christmas and New Year’s Eve experiences
Now that you’ve explored the options, it’s time to make your plans. If you have any questions or would like a quote for a group lunch, dinner or corporate party, contact the Art and Soul Group reservations team.
Book your event in Lisbon
Book your event in Gaia
Book your event in Évora
Frequently asked questions about Christmas and New Year’s Eve celebrations
Where can I celebrate Christmas in Lisbon, Gaia or Évora?
Art and Soul Group offers a range of ways to celebrate Christmas in Lisbon, Gaia and Évora, including restaurant experiences and festive programmes. Explore the offers in each destination to discover the available options and find the right setting for your celebration.
Where can I organise a corporate Christmas party in Lisbon, Gaia or Évora?
For a corporate Christmas party, consider Mensagem Rooftop in Lisbon, Rabelo Restaurant & Rooftop in Gaia or the event spaces at Évora Olive Hotel in Évora. Visit each venue’s page to explore menus, conditions and options for group events.
Where can I enjoy a special New Year’s Eve dinner in Lisbon, Gaia or Évora?
Mensagem Rooftop in Lisbon, Rabelo Restaurant & Rooftop in Gaia and Évora Olive Hotel in Évora are all options to consider when welcoming the New Year. Each offers a different experience. Explore the New Year’s Eve programmes for full details. Accommodation packages with New Year’s Eve celebrations are available at some venues, including in Gaia and Évora. In Lisbon, there is no combined package, but accommodation can be booked separately.
Which restaurants offer special Christmas and New Year’s Eve menus?
Mensagem Rooftop in Lisbon and Rabelo Restaurant & Rooftop in Gaia have dedicated pages for their festive celebrations. In Évora, explore the offers at Mercearia Eborim and Évora Olive Hotel. Menus, prices and booking conditions should be confirmed on the relevant offer pages.
How can I book a Christmas dinner, group dinner or corporate party?
To check booking conditions, request a quote or ask about menus and event arrangements, contact the Art and Soul Group reservations teams directly through each venue’s events page.
How far in advance should I book a Christmas dinner or New Year’s Eve party?
Booking early is recommended, particularly for group dinners, corporate parties and celebrations on high-demand dates. Availability depends on the venue, date and group size. Some venues are offering early-booking discounts until 31 October 2026. Contact the reservations team to confirm the available options.
Art and Soul Editorial Team
_
If you enjoyed these suggestions, keep an eye on our blog for more inspiration.
Official content produced by Art and Soul Group’s hospitality and restaurant editorial team. We create experiences through themed boutique hotels, local gastronomy and wellness in Portugal. Our content reflects the culture and identity of each destination where we operate: Porto, Vila Nova de Gaia, Lisbon and Évora.
